Currency exchange is available at many different sources in London, from airports and banks to travel agencies and street kiosks. Always check the exchange rate before changing money as Bureau de Change outlets do need to make a profit so may not offer the best rate available. The best rates are usually with the banks and travel agencies. The worst rates are normally from the currency exchange kiosks in central London and the railway bureaux often have high commission rates.

Main 'High Street' banks:

• HSBC
• Nat West
• Barclays
• Lloyds TSB

Recommended Travel Agencies:

• Thomas Cook
• American Express

Traveler's Checks (Cheques)

Traveler's checks are a safe form of currency to carry. Buy UK pounds sterling traveler's checks before coming to London as fees will be incurred to exchange other currency traveler's checks.

Cash and Credit Cards

You will always need cash as well, to pay for the tube or a cup of coffee. I have found the best way to deal with UK currency is to simply bring your ATM card for withdrawing cash, and use your credit card for Chip and PIN purchases . That way, you get the best exchange rate of the day, don't need to carry large amounts of cash, and your purchases are most likely insured as well (depending on your credit card company).

ATMs (Cash Machines)

We live in an international world (and London is a seriously international city!) so it shouldn't be a problem finding a UK ATM (known locally as 'cash machines' or 'cash points') that is compatible with your bank account at home.

You can check with your bank before traveling to find out the logos to look for on the UK ATMs. As with anywhere in the world, do be security-conscious when using the machine: check no-one is watching you enter your PIN, and put your money away safely before moving away from the machine.

Remember your PIN!

Although a lot of countries have letters on their number key pads, we are only just catching on to this idea here in the UK. Therefore, don't just remember the word that signifies your PIN (Personal Identification Number). I find it easiest to remember the finger movement pattern.

Photographs of UK Money

Try to familiarize yourself with UK money before you arrive in London. Check out these pictures of the notes and coins.